Work-in-progress:
Incorporating Flashs Card Exchange Levels I, II & III,
Professional Culinary Institute hand-out at the two-day
summary followed by Levels I & II test, & known test Q&As
for same…Anticipate finishing this by end of 8/31/10. When
you study for Level I, you essentially are studying for
Level II as well, which will have blind-tasting of two noble
grapes, New World vs. Old World, and service waiting on four
Master Sommeliers...

What is the difference between oxidized and maderized wines?
Both turn the wines brown, but oxidization is caused by air contact
and maderization is caused by heat contact. Both turn a white wine
brown and cause nutty aromas.

Name the species of grape used for making wine.
Vitis Vinifera

What is the hybrid of Pinotage from South America?
Piot Noir & Cinsault

What is the alcohol in wine called?
Ethanol

What is Mutage?
The fermentation is stopped early by the addition of alcohol before
the must has fermented out all the sugar. It is part of the process
of making VDNs (Vin Douex Naturale)

What is The Wort?
The liquid that is produced in the beer making process from the malt
meal that is created from the roasted barley step. The wort is then
filtered, flavored, f ermented, cooked and kegged or bottled.

How is a cigar size stated
In Length and ring sizes

How is Beaujolais Nouveaux Produced?
Carbonic Maceration

What is the formula for fermentation?
Yeast + Sugar + Heat + Alcohol + Carbon Dioxide
Where was the first AVA?
Augusta, Missouri

What is the Pineau de la Loire grape more commonly known as?
Chenin Blanc

in what town was Dom Perignon the Cellar Master?
Hatvillers

What is the red grape of Bourgueil in the Touraine district of
the Loire Valley
Cab Franc

Where is Glenrowan and Rutherglen
located?Northeast Victoria

What is Amtliche Prufungsnumber?The control number on
labels of QbA wine

What is Klassifizierte Lage?Wines of superior quality
from a single, terroir-driven, classified site which will be named
on the label.

What is Gutsweine and Orstweine?HIgh-quality basic wines
which have a regional character

What are four regions of the
Limestone coast?
Coonwarra, Mount Benson,
Padthway and Wrattonbully

What style of wine is Jurancon known for?
A sweet white, golden wine with exotic fruits and honey aromas. It
can age for a very long time. It is one of the best wines in the
South West of France.

Name a region in the Loire whose wines would be considered an
inexpensive version of Sancerre
The Menetou-Salon and the other immediate surrounding areas - it is
not Pouilly Fume

What is Rasteau?
A VDN (Vin Doux Naturale) made mostly of Grenache - one of the
Southern Cotes du Rhone sweet AOC wines

What is Bonnezeaux? A grand cru AOC of Coteaux du Layon in Anjou (The Loire) made
from Chenin Blanc. It is alongside the Quarts de Chaume producing
the finest sweet wine in the Anjou.

What is the white Crozes Hermitage in the Rhone made from?
Marsanne & Rousanne

VDNs vs Vins de Liquer (VDLs)
VDNs are fortified with a neutral grape brandy while VDLs are
fortified with a spirit from their own region. ie: cognac is in
pineau des chaventes; fine de champagne is in ratafia; and armagnac
is in floc de gascogne

What are the large stones in Chateneuf de pape vineyards called?
Galets

What is the liquer de tirage?
Mixture of sweet reserve wine, sugar and yeast which is added before
the second fermentation in champange

What is the liquer d'expedition
Wine and sugar added to champagne to top it off after disgorgement -
more commonly called dossage

What is the grape of Chinon (in Touraine, The Loire Valley)
Cab Franc

What is the grape of Vouvray (in Touraine, The Loire Valley)
Chenin Blanc

What grapes are allowed in the Cote Rotie? (Northern Rhone)
Syrah & Viognier

What grape is allowed in the sparkling Cremant de Loire (Cremant
de Loire encompasses the Anjou, Samur and Touraine regions)Chenin Blanc

What is the wine to change it's classification since the 1855
ruling, and in what year did it change?
In 1973 Mouton Rothschild moved from 2-1 the only one to change at
all

Which region in France does reclassify it's rankings?
St Emilion

What are the 2 main regions of Alsace?
Bas Rhine & Haut Rhine

What is the difference between
Vendange Tardive (VT) and Selection de Grains Nobles (SGN)?
VT is late harvest wines that are naturally sweet, and SGN are
picked even later and affected by botrytis

What style wines are Provence's SW region Bergerac most similar
to in style?
They are very much like Bordeaux

What is Cote de Beaune's sole Grand Cru?
Aloxe Cortone

What is the only wine that is actually cooked and what is the
name of the vessel used to cook it in?
Madeira - Estufagem

Define Meritage. (Pronounced like
Heritage with an M)
A California Bordeaux blend. Though many that qualify don't use the
term because they don't pay the fees required. (e.g. Opus One is
called simply red wine)

State a synonym for Fume Blanc.
Sauvignon Blanc

State the origin of Zinfandel.
Most likely Croatia. It is known as the following: Pimitivo in Italy
Crljenak Kastelanski in Croatia

Name 2 important wine regions of Canada.Niagara Peninsula
Okanagan Valley

Name the country where winemaking began on the American
Continent.
Mexico

Name the region Casablanca is within and what wines the area is
known for.
Country: Chile - Region: Aconcagua
Grapes: It is known for whites from Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay

Name the most important region of Argentina.
Mendoza.

Name the most important grape of Argentina.
Malbec.

Name the most important grape of Uruguay.Tannat.

Name the most famous region for Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand)
Marlborough on the North Island

Name the up and coming region for Pinot Noir in New Zealand.
Martinborough on the South Island

State which island Hawkes Bay is on and what grapes it is known
for.
North Island (New Zealand)
Grapes: Chardonnay Cabernet Sauvignon Cab Blends

State why red wine grapes do well in some of the areas
traditionally thought to be too cool for reds (New Zealand
Specifically)
Mainly because of micro climates, although rain shadow and a lot of
sunlight both add to the ability to grow red grapes.

State the minimum percent for varietal labeling in Australia.
85%

Name a grape grown in both Cognac and Armagnac.
Ugni Blanc - Colombard - Folle Blanche

Name the best Cognac and Armagnac regions and why they are the
best.Cognac: Grand Champagne, Petite Champagne and if its from
both its called Grand Fine Champagne Armagnac: Bas Armagnac Best regions in both are the Chalkiest
regions in their respective areas

State the main labeling age terms
for Cognac and Armagnac.3 Star or VS: Very Special : min 3 years5 Star or VSOP : Very Superiore Old Pale : Min 4 yearsNapolean or XO: Extra Old : Min 5 years

Name the best region of Calvados.
Pays d'Auge

State the main flavoring ingredient in Gin.
Juniper Berries

State the source of sugar for the best Tequila.
The sap from the Blue Agave.

State the minimum sugar level in a liqueur.
2.5%

State a bitter liqueur suitable as an apertif or a digestive.
Campari, Pernod, Fernet Branca, Dubonnet, Jagermeister, Cynar, and
Lillet.

Describe how cigar sizes are stated.
By Length and ring size. I.E. 5 1/2 inches by 50 ring 50 ring would
be 50/64 of a 1/4 inch

State the ingredients allowed in the Bavarian Purity Law.
Malted Barley
Yeast
Water
Hops

Name an AOC for Rosé wine from Rhone or Provence.
Best answer is Tavel, but the following do make rosés as well:
Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Cotes du Rhone, Cotes du Rhone Villages, Lirac,
Rasteau, and Muscat de Beaumes de VeniseAnd these make rose in Provence:
Cotes du Provence
Bandol
Les Beaux de Provence

Name an AOC of the Loire similar to Sancerre.
Pouilly-Fumé

Name the best sub-region of Graves.
Pessac-Leognan

Define Sur Lie.
Sur Lie or "On the Lies" is aging the wine on the dead yeast to
create a premiere texture.

Name the grape of Sancerre.
Sauvignon Blanc

Define Vin Jaune.
Vin jaune (literally "yellow wine") is an unusual wine made in the
Jura region of France. The wine is made from late harvest Savagnin
grapes, an unusual local white variety. They are fermented slowly
and then kept in small old oak casks. The casks are not topped up,
unlike most wines, so an air gap appears above the wine due to
evaporation. A film (flor) of yeast grows over the wine, protecting
it partially from oxidation.

Name the major white grape of
Burgundy.
Chardonnay

Name the AOC of Coulee de Serrant and Roche Aux Moines.Savennieres - Which makes wines from Chenin Blanc

State the rough geographic location of Jura and Savoie.
The French Alps near the Swiss border. East of Burgundy.

Name the AOC used when dry white wines are made in Sauternes.
Bordeaux AOC

Define "Selection de Grains Noble"
Dessert wines from botrytis fruit.

Name the grape of Condrieu.
Viognier

State what the 2nd word is in most Cote D'Or village names.
The grand cru vineyard within the village. (Ex: Gevery-Chambertin
and Puligny-Montrachet)

State the difference between Crozes-Hermitage and Hermitage.
Crozes-Hermitage contains flat land with clay soils. Hermitage
contains lots of slopes and a more granite soil.

State the main labeling difference between Alsace and the rest of
France.
In Alsace they label their wines by varietal whereas in the rest of
France it is by a place name.

State what is different about Corton and Musigny compared to the
other Grand Cru of their respective districts.
Corton is the only Grand Cru red wine in Cotes de Beaune which is
normally known for whites.
Musigny is the only Grand Cru white wine in Cotes de Nuits which is
usually known for reds.

State the production difference for Beaujolais Nouveau.
Carbonic Maceration

Name an AOC of the Loire that produces red wines from pinot noir.
Reuilly
Menetou-Salon
Sancerre

Define kimmeridgian soil.
A greyish limestone.

Define "Negociant"
A grape buyer. They buy grapes then produce wines.

Name the four sub-regions of the Loire.
Pays Nantais
Anjou-Saumur
Touraine
Central Vineyards

Name two AOCs of the Loire that produce red wines from cabernet
franc.
Touraine
Touraine-Amboise
Chinon
Bourgeil

Define Terroir.
Anything to do with a sense of place.

State the AOCs of Alsace.Cremant de Alsace
Alsace
Alsace Grand Cru

Name the portion of the Cote D'Or best known for whites.
Cote de Beaune

Name the portion of the Cote D'Or best known for reds.
Cote de Nuits

Name the rough geographic location of Languedoc and Roussillon
Between the Meditteranean and the Pyrnees.

Name the famous sparklig wine of the Languedoc.
Cremant de Limoux

Name the AOC for Sauvignon Blanc in Burgundy
St. Bris, formerly Sauvignon de St. Bris – In Chablis

Define Puttonyos.A 30 Liter Barrel/Scoop. Defines sweetness of a Tokaji based on
the number of Puttonyos added to the dry must to create the sweet
wine. This ranges from 3 Puttonyos to 6 Puttonyos.

Define Aszu Eszencia.
Means Essence and is the Sweetest style of Tokaji you can have.

Define Suss Reserve.
Sterilized grape juice used to sweeten wines

State why wine can be made at 51deg latitude & how they differ
from Alsace.
Due to rivers and planting on South Facing slopes to maximize
sunlight. They are generally sweeter and less alcoholic than wines
from Alsace.

Define Lagar.
A rectangular trough used to stomp the grapes by foot in the Port
making process.

What is aguardente?
A neutral grape brandy at 77% alcohol.

State the region and style of Txakoli DO.
Colabria Light and Acidic Reds and Whites.

What is the main grape used in
Taurasi?Aglianico

What is the minimum % for
varietal wines in Chile?85%

According to the Spanish Wine Law
of 2003, the term añejo refers to a wine that hasbeen aged for how long?
24 months in cask or bottle

Name the two dry styles of
varietal Madeira:Sercial and Verdelho

Eden and Clare Valleys are known
for what grape?Riesling

What is the most widely planted
red varietal in Italy?Sangiovese

Australian appellations are
called…Geographical Indicators (G.I.)

What is the most
important growing region of Argentina?
Mendoza

American wine appellations are
referred to as…American Viticultural
Areas (AVAs)

In which Australian State is the
Margaret River GI located?Western
Australia

In which Australian State is the
Limestone Coast GI located?South Australia

Which Tuscan DOC is famous for
its Bordeaux-style blends?Bolgheri

Define VeraisonWord used by English
speakers for that intermediate stage of grape berry development
which marks the beginning of ripening, when the grapes change from
the hard, green state to their softened and colored form.

Australia's Yarra Valley is known
for what grape?Pinot
Noir

Where would you find pinotage and
what is it? South Africa – a blend of
Pinot Noir and Cinsault

Which region of New Zealand is
gaining a strong reputation for Pinot Noir?Central Otago

What group of states is the
world’s 3rd largest wine producer?Commonwealth of
Independent States

What is the Italian equivalent of
the French Vins de Table?Vino di Tavola

Define DébourbageFrench term for settling
out solids from must or wine.

What is Vino Santo?A sweet passito, oxidized
wine from Trentino or Tuscany.

What does the term Grosse
Gewächse mean?Great Growth” term for
the top VDP dry wines from regions other than the Rheingau

State the significance of the
grape order listed on Australian bottles.
They are listed from highest percent to lowest by law.

State the grape of Penfolds Grange.
Shiraz

Name 3 Australian States.
New South Whales
Victoria
Tasmania
South Australia
Western Australia
Queensland

Name the Australian Super-Zone.South-Eastern Australia which includes:Victoria
New South Whales
Part of Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania

Name Australia's legal term for a wine region.
G.I. or Geographical Indication

State the local name for the soil of Coonawarra.
Terra Rossa Soil or "Red Earth"

Name 4 regions within South
Australia (13)
Barossa Valley
Coonawarra
Eden Valley
Mclaren Vale
Adelaide Hills
Clare Valley
So Flanders Ranges
Currency Creek
So Fleurieu
Mount Benson
Padthaway
Riverland
Adelaide Plains
South Australia is the largest producing area and has the most
popular regions

Name the region Maipo is within
and what wines the area is known for.
Country: Chile - Region: Valle Central
Grapes: Mainly known for Cabernet Sauvignon

State what is unique about the vines from Chile.
Chile has never had phylloxera and as a result has ungrafted 100%
vitis vinifera vines.

Name the obscure Bordeaux varietal that is important in Chile.
Carmenere

State the minimum labeling % for varietals in Chile.
75% for varietals, region name and vintage.What is the reason to be
believed why Chili has not been attacked by Phylloxera or oidium?Isolation caused by the
Andes and the Pacific Ocean

Name the 5 viticultural regions
of Chile, what are two important ones?AtacamaCoquimboAconcagua*Valle Central*Sur

Elqui Valley and the Limari
Valleys are two developing subregions in which region?Coquimbo in Chile

Name the two subregions of
AconcaguaValle del Aconcagua and
Valle Casablanca

The reputation of Valle del
Aconcagua is for what kind/style of wine?Reputation for producing
some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah of Chile

The reputation of Valle
Casablanca is for what kind/style of wine?Reputation for producing
some of the best Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Carmenere of Chile

Vermonte, Caliterra, Errazuriz,
and Montes are excellent producers in which region.Region de Aconcagua

Which region is San Antonio
located?Region de Aconcagua

Which region in Chile produces
the most wine?Region de Valle Central

Name the 4 subregions of Region
de Valle CentralMaipo
Rapel
Maule
Curico

60% of plantings in the Maipo
Valley are of which varietal?Cabernet Sauvignon

Rapel Valley has a reputation for
producing top wines out of which 2 varietals?Cabernet Sauvignon and
Merlot

Which is Chile's largest wine
region and what it's better produced varietals?Maule Valley; Cabernet
Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carmenere

What is the Tête de Cuvée or
Prestige Cuvée of Perrier-Jouet?La Belle Epoque

What are the primary white grapes
of Bandol?Bourbolenc, Ugni and
Clairette

Name 4 VDN of the
Languedoc-Roussillon.Maury,
Banyuls,
Banyuls Grand Cru,
Grand Roussillon,
Muscat de Frontignan,
Muscat de St. Jean de Minervois,
Muscat de Lunel,
Muscat de Miravel
Mise en bouteille au chateau (Bordeaux)The wine was bottled at the chateau named on the bottle

Mise en bouteille dans nos cavesThe wine was bottled in
the cellars, usually those of the negocient who will be named

Mise en bouteille par XYZWine was bottled by the
company or person XYZ

What is limousin?The type of oak in which
Bordeaux barriques are made out of

The Côte-des-Blancs is a wine
producing district found in?
Champagne

What is Gentil and where can it
be found?Gentil is found in Alsace
-blend of 2 or more grape varieties BUT must contain a minimum of
50% Riesling, Gewurz, Pinot Gris, or Muscat

What is the only AOC that allows
Chardonnay in Alsace?Cremant
d'Alsace

What is the principal grape of
Rose’ de Riceys?Pinot Noir

Name the three sub-regions of
ArmagnacBas-Armagnac,
Haut-Armagnac, Tenareze

Who fixes the price of Champagne
grapes every year?The CIVC or Comite
Interprofessional du vin de Champagne

How long must a non-vintage
champagne be aged (min) before release?18 months

What is the main grape in
Gigondas, and what is the max % allowedGrenache 80%

Define OuillageFrench word meaning both
ullage and topping up.

What is Maury?Appellation in Roussillon
making fortified wine from min 75% Grenache

Define PigeageFrench term for punching
down the cap of grape skins and other solids.

Define SoutirageFrench term for racking,
or moving clear wine off its sediment and into a clean container. It
can also be used for the wine serving process of decanting.

Describe the characteristics of
Bourgueil.A red wine made of
Cabernet Franc with up to 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Fragrant, Medium
to light body, Light tannin

What is the widely planted grape
in Champagne?Pinot Meunier

What style of wines are produced
in Reuilly?Whites - Sauvignon Blanc
Red and Rose - Pinot Noir

ALSACE
Bordered by the Vosges Mountains on the West and Germany’s Rhein
River to the East, Alsace is one of France’s most picturesque wine
regions. The wines of Alsace are predominantly dry whites that offer
rich, pure varietal fruit with a pronounced earth/mineral character.
Fifty-one Grand Cru vineyards top the region’s hierarchy of quality.

What is Klevener de Heiligenstein
and where is it from?The Alsace wine made from
the savagnin rose grape

Where is Sylvaner a permitted
varietal for Grand Cru classification?Zolzenberg

BORDEAUX
Bordeaux is the home to some of the most expemsive, famous and
sought after wine in the world. Though its very best examples
account for less than 5% of the region’s total wine output, it
remains the standard bearer for wines of its type.

General BackgroundLargest
Appellation Controlee region in France
Over 250,000 acres of vineyards
54 Appelations – 10,000 producers
Bordeaux Rouge and Bordeaux Superieur account for 45% of total
production

TermsChateau: Estate under single ownership – size varies with
purchase or sale of vineyard (Ch. Petrus has increased by 50% since
1969

Negociant:
An agent who purchases fruit or wine in barrel, than ages it in
their own cellar

Define Methode Traditionelle2nd fermentation in this bottle Meaning the 2nd fermentation
takes place in the bottle that is sold to you.

Define RiddlingRiddling is the process of turning the bottles sharply and
slowly increasing their downward angle to make the lies and sediment
pool in the neck of the bottle.

State the difference between Extra Brut and Extra Dry
Extra Brut has no sugar added during dosage. Extra Dry is a sweeter
level that was created for marketing to US and English customers.

Define Tete de Cuvee
It is the producers best blend in Champagne.

State the minimum sur lie aging for NV Champagne.
18 months

State the minimum sur lie aging for Vintage Champagne.
3 years

Define the term for adding sugar just prior to corking.
Dossage.

Define Blanc de Noirs
White of Darks meaning Black grapes only so the champagne therefore
contains only pinot noir or pinot meunier

Define Blanc de Blancs
White of Whites meaning white grapes only.

What are the districts of
Champagne and which one only grows Chardonnay?
Montagne de Riems
The Aube
Valloe de la Marne
Cote de Sezanne
Cote de Blanc - only Chard

Define RemontageFrench word for various
systems of pumping over, circulating liquid in the fermentation
vessel through the cap of grape solids during red wine
fermentation.

Define FoulageFrench for the
wine-making operation of crushing grapes.

Define Macération PelliculaireFrench term for the
prefermentation maceration of white grapes known as skin contact.

Define DégorgementFrench term for the
disgorgement operations at the end of the traditional method of
sparkling wine-making entailing the removal of a pellet of frozen
sediment from the neck of each bottle.

Define EncépagementWidely used French term
for the mix of vine varieties planted on a particular property.

What is the most Northerly wine
region in France?Champagne

Name the 5 areas that Champagne
is divided.Montagne de ReimsVallee de la MarneCote des BlancCote de SezanneAube

Which two areas in Champagne are
most black grapes grown?Montagne de Reims and
Vallee de la Marne

Which two areas in Champagne is
most Chardonnay grown?Cote des Blancs and Cote
Sezanne

Name the only three methods of
pruning allowed in ChampagneGuyot simple and doubleChablisCordon de Royat

What is the name of the vineyard
grading system in Champagne?echelle

Explain what CM means on a
Champagne bottle.CM means that the
champagne has been made by a co-operativecooperative that makes and sells Champagne under one or more
brands that it owns

Explain what NM means on a
Champagne bottle.NM means that the wine
has been sold under the House which made it-traditionally referred to as a "house". Ex: Bollinger &Louis
Roederer

Explain what RM means on a
Champagne bottle.RM means that the
champagne is produced by a grower from their own grapes-known as grower-producer or grower for short

Explain what RC means on a
Champagne bottle.RC means that the grower
delivers grapes to a cooperative and in part or full payment,
receives back ready made champagne

Explain what MA means on a
Champagne bottle.MA means a brand name
owned by the purchaser such as a restaurant, supermarket, or wine
merchant

Explain what SR means on a
Champagne bottle.SR means that a publicly
registered firm set up by two or more growers, often related-who
share premises to make and market their Champs under more than one
brand

Explain what NR means on a
Champagne bottle.NR stands for
Negocient-Distributeur which is a company that sells on champagne it
did not make, to others who then retail it

What does the standard size press
hold in Champagne? (kg)D2550 liters

What is the definition of vin de
cuvee?the first 2050 liters of
the main champagne pressing

What is the definition of premier
taille?the final 500 liters of
the main pressing in champagne wine production

What is the significance of
assemblage in Champagne?the hallmark or style of
each champagne house

Who is credited with inventing la
methode champenoise? (name and abbey)Dom Perignon, cellar
master at the Abbey in Hautvillers

Who is credited with inventing
and developing the remuage process?Madame Nicole -Barbe
Cliquot-Ponsardin

What is remuage?Remuage is the movement
of sediment of dead yeasts cells caused by the second fermentation.

What is the other name that
dosage is sometimes called?liqueur d'expedition

Name two high quality rose
producers in Champagne.Gatinois and Paul Dethume

What is the primary varietal of
Montagne de Reims and what are its Grand Cru Villages(9)?Pinot Noir;AmbonnayBouzyVerzyVerzenayLouvoisMaillySilleryBeaumont-sur-VeslePuisieux

What is the primary varietal of
the Cotes des Blancs and what are its Grand Cru Villages(6)?Chardonnay;Mesnil-sur-OgerOgerOiryChouillyCramantAvize

What is the primary varietal of
the Vallé de la Marne and what are its Grand Cru Villages(2)?Pinot Munier;ÄyTours-sur-Marne

What is the primary varietal of
the Côtes de Sézanne?Chardonnay

What is the primary varietal of
the Aube?Pinot Noir

What is the only AC wine that
permits the method of production for rose wine by blending red and
white wines together?Rose champagne

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Bollinger?Grand Annee

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Krug (2)?Krug CollectionGrand Cuvee (non-vintage)

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Laurent Perrier?Grand Siecle
(non-vintage)

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Louis Roederer?Cristal

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Moet & Chandon?Dom Perignon

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Perrier Jouet?Belle Epoque

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Pol Roger?
Winston Churchill

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Pommery?Cuvee Louise

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Ruinart?Dom Ruinart

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Taittinger?Comtes de Champagne

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Veuve Cliquot?La Grande
Dame

What is the Cuvee de Prestige of
Jacquesson?Grand Signature

What is liqueur de tirage?Measured quantities of
liquid sugar, yeast, and a little tannin that produce a second
fermentation in the bottle

How long do non-vintage
champagnes mature on their lees?Minimum of 15 months from
the date of bottling

How long do vintage champagnes
mature on their lees?3 years from the date of
bottling

What are the two methods of
disgorgement?the traditional method a
la volee and the modern method, a la glace

What is the a la glace method?Placing the bottle necks
into a shallow trough containing freezing mixture which will freeze
a small pellet of wine below the sediment

What is dosage?The measured amount of
sweetened wine that replaces the wine lost at degorgement

What determines the style of the
wine that is made into Champagne?The % of sugar syrup in
the dosage

What is another name for dosage?liqueur d'expedition

What are the 6 styles of
Champagne from driest to sweetest?Brut naturelleBrutExtra SecSecDemi-secDoux, rich

What is the difference between
Petillant and Perlant wines?Petillant means slightly
sparkling and Perlant means very lightly sparkling

THE LOIREName the appellations of
Touraine (There are five: two of them are famous for Cab Franc and
one is famous for Chenin Blanc)
Bourgueil (Cab Franc)
Chinon (Cab Franc)
Cheverney
Touraine
Vouvray (Chenin Blanc)

Name an AOC of Pays Nantais and
the grape (Eastern part of The Loire)Muscadet de Sevre -
Muscadet
Muscadet sur lie - Muscadet
Think of a grape with the town in its title

Name the appellations of the Central Vineyards or Cote de Gien
(This is in The Loire and they are all famous for Sav Blanc)
Pouilly Fume
Quincy
Sancerre

What are some of the appellations of Anjou-Saumur in The Loire?
Anjou
Savenierres

Name the main regions of the Loire Valley
Pays Nantais
Anjou Saumur
Touraine
The Central Vineyards or Cotes de Gien

Name the sub districts of the
Central vineyards (5)SancerrePouilly-sur LoireMenetou-Salon
QuincyReuilly

Pouilly-sur Loire produces two AC
white wines, what are they and what is the difference?Pouilly Fume - made from
Sauvignon BlancPouilly-sur Loire - made from Chesselas

Name the sub districts of Anjou
(4)AnjouSaumurSavennieresCoteaux-du-Layon

What is the style of the best
wines from Saumur?Cremant de Loire AC - Dry
sparkling wines made from Chenin Blanc plus a maximum of 20%
Chardonnay

What is the outstanding wine made
in Coteaux du Layon?Sweet white dessert wine
made from Chenin Blanc

Name the two AOCs in Coteaux du
Layon known for making high quality sweet dessert wineQuarts de Chaume and
Bonnezeaux

What style of wine does
Savennieres make and what are the two ACs within that produces this
style?Dry white wine from
Chenin BlancCoulee-de-SerrantLa Roche-aux-Moines

THE RHONEState the
difference between Northern and Southern Rhone red wines.
North: Single grape allowed is Syrah
(In some areas they do allow the addition of some white varietals)
South: Blend of any of 23 grapes including Grenache, Mourvedre, and
Syrah.

What 2 Cote du Rhone villages
have seperate AOC for their sweet wines?
Beaumes de Venice
Rasteau for Rancio

Name two villages in the Cotes de
Nuits
Gevrey Chambertin
Nuits-St-Georges
Fixin
Marsannay
Vosne Romanee

Where are Vienna and Avignon
located?Rhone

Where are gallettes found and how
are they beneficial?Cote de Rhone and they
are beneficial because they help to drain the ground, act as storage
heaters to warm the vines, and prevent soil from drying out.

Name one of the top estates of
Cote de RhoneChateau Beaucastel,
Chateau Rayas

What style of wine is Monbazillac?
A sweet french wine comprised of Semillon, Sav Blanc and Muscadelle.
It is similar to Sauternes
and is made on the SW slopes opposite BergeracDescribe the types and style
of wines produced in Bergerac AC.Dry reds produced from
Cabernet and MerlotWhites from SB and Semillon similar in style to Sauternes

Describe Bergerac Sec.Dry white wines made from
Semillon and SB

Describe the types and style of
wines produced in Pecharment ACDry wines produced from
the Bordeaux red grapes that can age up to 10 years

Describe the types and style of
wines produced in MonbazillacThe wines are similar in
style to Sauternes but of a much lower
quality.

Describe the type and style of
wine produced in Cahors ACDry reds made from
Malbec

What kind of wines are produced
in Gaillac AC (generally)?Dry reds, whites, roses,
and sparkling wines made mostly from local varietals.

What kind of wine does Madiran AC
produce?Dry red made from a blend
of up to 40-60% Tannat

How are VDLs produced?VDNs are produced by
adding grape spirit to must before any fermentation has taken place.
Alcohol level is around 16-17 percent abv.

What is another name for VDLs?Mistelle

Name 4 VDLs and the grape spirit
used for their production.Pineau des Charentes –
Cognac
Floc de Gascogne –Armagnac
Ratafia de Champagne - Marc de Champagne
Australia's muscats and Tokays - Muscadelle
wines
Where are Riquewihr and Ribeauville located?
Alsace

Name 3 important Anbaugebiet out
of the 13
(one of the four levels of geographic classification referring to a
“wine growing region”, and which is always used on the label of QbA
and Prädikatswein wine: The other three are

-Bereich, district, of which
there are 39. Each Anbaugebiet is divided into one or more Bereiche.

-Großlage, about 170
collective sites, which is a collective name for a number of single
vineyards

Wine Classifications
Tafelwein: Table WineLandwein: Regional WineQualitatswein bestimmter Arbaugebiete (QbA): Quality wine
from one of the 13 major regionsQualitatswein mit Pradikat (QmP): Quality wine detrmined by
the degree of ripeness at harvest
- Only classifiation that cannot be chaptalized
- Six pradikate or levels of quality ranging from driest to sweetest

QmP PradikatKabinett Wine - Least ripe

Spatlese wine - Late-gathered grapes left on the
vine to ripen

Auslese wines - Selected individual bunches of
grapes left on the vine to become over-ripe

Beerenauslese (BA) wines - Specially selected grapes chosen
from the ripest bunches which have been effected by Edelfaule

Trockenbeerenauslese (TBA) wines
-Dried up, selected
grapes affected by Edelfaule which have been left to shrivel on the
vine

Which regions of Germany can
legally produce Liebfraumilch?Rheingau, Rheinhesse,
Pfalz and Nahe

What is Weissherbst?German for "white autumn"
or "white harvest." It originally referred to red grapes that had
lost their color because of Edelfaüle (botrytis cinerea). Today
Weissherbst refers to rosé wines produced from a single grape
variety and of at least qualitätswein quality. The best-known wines
of this type are made from Spätburgunder (pinot noir) in Germany's
baden and württemberg regions. A rosé wine from Baden

What are the two most important
varietals in Hessische Bergstrasse?Riesling and
Muller-Thurgau

What is the most important grape
of Saale-Unstrut?Muller-Thurgau

Schlossneuenburg is the most
important and largest Bereich in which anbaugebiete?Saale-Unstrut

What is the most important grape
of Sachsen?
Muller-Thurgau

Which anbaugebiete is noted for
its Schillerwein production?Wurteemberg

What is Schillerwein?Rose wine (Germany)

What are the main varietals of
Wurttemberg? Red Trollinger, Lemberger,
Schwarzriesling (Meunier)

What's the difference between
Deutscher Sekt and sekt?Deutscher Sekt is
sparkling wine made from German grapes. sekt is sparkling wine
produced in germany from imported wine that may or may not be
blended with German wine.

What is fleubereinigung?relocation of vineyards
to improve accessibility to vines

Define Spatlese (German)grapes that are
selectively picked at least 7 days after the main harvest starts for
that specific variety

Define Auslese (German)specially selected,
perfectly ripened bunches of grapes that are hand-picked and then
pressed separately from other grapes.

Define Beerenauslese (German)specially selected,
overripe grapes that are hand-picked and then pressed separately
from other grapes

Define Trockenbeerenauslese
(German)specially selected,
overripe grapes that are left on the vine until nearly dry and
picked one by one

Aprox how long is Barolo aged before release
2 years
4 yrs for Reserva

What is the govorno method
-you take select vineyard grapes
-dry them out on a plastic net so the juice is concentrated
-press them
-add the juice to already fermented wine
Objective: it enhances the wine foe earlier drinking, makes richer
fuller chiantis - old faashioned way

What is the law concerning grape varietal in Brunello du
Montalcino?And how long is it aged?
100% Sangiovese Grosso
4 yrs, 2 yrs in oak
5 yrs for Reserva, 2 1/2 in oak

Name the sparkling wine of
Piedmont and its grape.
Asti which is made from Moscato(Muscat) Bonus Info: The muscat
grapes vary in color from white to orange to black and shades in
between. Here in Asti they are white. Which is why locally it is
known as Moscato Bianco or White Muscat.

State the requirements of Barolo and Barolo Riserva.
Barolo - 3 years in Barrel/Bottle Barolo Riserva - 5 years in
Barrel/Bottle

Describe Barolo Chinato.
Barolo wine that has been aromatized with quinine. Also regared by
many as the biggest joke of the DOCG system.

Name 1 of the DOCs created to include the Super Tuscans.
Bolgheri
Sant'Antimo

Name Tuscany's only white DOCG.
Vernaccia di San Gimignano

State the production and style of Vin Santo.
Vin Santo is made using Passito grapes which are grapes dried on
straw mates and then must be aged a minimum of 3 years and up to 6
years in small wooden barrels.

State the non-traditional grape of the 1st Super Tuscans.
Cabernet Sauvignon

State a red DOCG of Tuscany other than Chianti and name the
grape.
Brunello di Montalcino DOCG Grape: Brunello
Carmignano DOCG Grape:Sangiovese with up to 10% Cabernet Sauvignon
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG
Grape:Same as Chianti(Sangiovese, Merlot, and Syrah) Cabernet
Sauvignon is NOT ALLOWED and can be 100% Sangiovese

Describe the goria laws.
Created in 1992 it is responsible for the IGT level which is used as
a spring-board to DOC. Also, they tightened riserva rules as well as
modifying some of the vineyard zones.

Name the main grape of Valtellina.
Nebbiolo

Name 1 region of Italy where German grapes are common.
Alto AdigeTrentino

State the grape of Gavi.
Cortese.

Name the most widely planted grape in Piedmont.
Barbera.

State the meaning of secco.
Dry

State the meaning of amabile.
Semi-Sweet or Slightly sweet

State the meaning of frizzante.
Semi-Sparkling

State the meaning of spumante.
Sparkling

State the meaning of passito.
Grapes that are dried on straw mats to concentrate the flavors.

State the meaning of dolce.
Sweet

How many wine regions are there in Italy and what are the 3 most
famous.
Most famous are Piedmont, Tuscany, and Veneto.

Name the most important grape of Tuscany.
Sangiovese

State the meaning of Classico.
The best area of a given region.

State the type of wine typically made from Prosecco grape.
Dry to slightly sweet Frizante.

Name the grape(s) and style of Frascati DOC.
Dry White made from Trebbiano and Malvasia.

Name the grape(s) and style of Montepulciano d’Abbruzzo DOC.
Dry Red made from Montepulciano grapes.

Name the grape(s) and style of Fiano d’Avellino DOCG.
Dry White made from the Fiano grape.

Name the grape(s) and style of Taurasi DOCG.
Dry Red made from the Aglianico grape.

Name the grape of Apulia that has a USA connection.
Primitivo (Zinfandel)

Name the grape grown on Mt. Vulture in Basilicata
Aglianico

State the type of wine from Marsala DOC and where it is made.
Fortified wine made in Sicily.

Name the grape(s) and style of Vermentino di Gallura.
Dry White from the Vermentino grape.

State the difference between Amarone and Recioto.
Both are made from passito grapes, but Amarone is dry while Recioto
is Sweet.

State the meaning of Ripasso.
re-passed – the traditional winemaking technique in Veneto Young
Valpolicella is put into tanks or barrels containing lees from the
previous Amarone fermentation which Causes secondary fermentation
and increases Alc% giving it a recioto feel.

Name three grapes used in the
production of ValpollicellaCorvina, Rondinella,
Molinara

Name the cities where port has historically been aged.
Oporto or Villa Nova de Gaia

Describe the difference between Vintage and Tawny Port.
Vintage port is aged for 2 years exactly in oak where as Tawny port
must be aged a minimum of 7 years in oak, also Tawny is generally a
blend of multiple years where as vintage is from only one.

Describe Ruby Port (2)Blend of young wines from
different yearsAll which have been in barrels of tanks for 2-3 years

Describe Late-bottled Vintage
Port (2)Wine from a single year
other than a declared vintage year
Matured in wood for 4-6 years

Describe Vintage Port (2)Wines from the top
vineyards only from very good years in which Port declares a vintageMatured in cask for 2 years and then bottled and will mature and
improve in bottle for 15-40 more years

Describe Single Quinta Port (2)Grapes come from a given
quinta in a single yearMatured in cask for 2 years and then bottled and will mature and
improve in bottle for 15-40 more years

Describe Tawny Port (2)Blend of wines from
several years that yield a light colored wineReady for drinking when bottled

Describe Aged Tawny PortBlend of Ports from
several years and barrel agedTawny with indication of age (10, 20, 30 years), years represent
style of Port, not the minimum age.

Describe Colheita PortTawny Ports made from a
single vintageMust be aged a minimum of 7 yearsReady for drinking when bottled

The name of the first red wine of
real quality produced in the Douro DOCBarca
Velha

What are the main varieties used
for red wines in the Douro?Touriga Nacional,Tinta CaoTinta Roriz (Tempranillo)

What are the varietals used for
the best red wines in the Dao?Touriga NacionalTinta Roriz (Tempranillo)Alfrocheiro

Which grape dominates Bairrada
and what kind of wine does it produce?Baga is the dominant
varietal and it makes up a minimum of 50% of the red blends and some
of the best reds found in Portugal.

What is Colares and what is it
famous for?Colares is a DOC and it
is famous for it's ungrafted Ramisco vines.

When can Setubal be labeled
Moscatel de Setubal?When produced from a
minimum of 85% Muscat d'Alexandria

What is Garrafeira and what is
it's significance?Garrafeira is a label
term unique to Portugese wines. All wines using this term must have1. vintage stated on label2. extra .5 abv above the minimum for its DOC3. Specific aging requirements

What is Setubal and where is it found?Setubal is a fortified dessert wine and is produced in Terras Do
Sado VR in Portugal.

The name of the first red wine of
real quality produced in the Douro DOCBarca
Velha

What are the main varieties used
for red wines in the Douro?Touriga Nacional, Tinta
Cao Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo)

What are the varietals used for
the best red wines in the Dao?Touriga Nacional Tinta
Roriz (Tempranillo) Alfrocheiro

Which grape dominates Bairrada
and what kind of wine does it produce?Baga is the dominant
varietal and it makes up a minimum of 50% of the red blends and some
of the best reds found in Portugal.

What is Colares and what is it
famous for?Colares is a DOC and it
is famous for it's ungrafted Ramisco vines.

When can Setubal be labeled
Moscatel de Setubal?When produced from a
minimum of 85% Muscat d'Alexandria

What is Garrafeira and what is
it's significance?Garrafeira is a label
term unique to Portugese wines. All wines using this term must have1. vintage stated on label2. extra .5 abv above the minimum for its DOC3. Specific aging requirements

State what is character of Albariza soil.
One of 3 soils used to produce Sherry grapes. A soil that retains
water, but dries out on top and makes the roots dig down while
protecting the water beneath from the heat keeping it from
evaporating.

Describe the Solera system.
A fractional blending method to introduce older wine to younger wine
year to year never exceeding 1/3 of a barrel.

Name the most important grape(s) of Ribera del Duero.
Tempranillo
Garnacha
Also some bordeaux varieties

Name the grape that Tinto de Toro is a synonym of
Tempranillo

State the DO of Vega Sicilia.
Ribera del Duero

State the most important grape(s) of Rias Baixas.
Albarino

What's the Spanish equivalent to
AOC?DO

What's the Spanish equivalent to
French VDQS?VCIG

What's Spanish regional wine
called?VC (Vino Comarcal)

What's the lowest category of
Spanish wine called?VdM (Vino de Mesa)

Where is Priorat located?Catalan

What is the quality level of
Priorat?DOQ

What is the highest Spanish
classification of quality?DOCa

What are Vinos de Pagos?estate wines of
particularly high quality.

How long do Crianza wines in
Ribera Del Duero and Rioja have to be aged in oak before release?1 year out of two years
maturation before release

Name the subzones of RiojaAlta, Alavesa, Baja

What are the aging regulations
for wines labeled Crianza?Reds must age a minimum
of 2 years with at least 6 months in cask.

Whites and rosados must age a
minimum of 12 months with at least 6 months in
cask.

What are the aging regulations
for wines labeled Reserva?Red wines must age for 3
years with a minimum 1 year in cask. Whites and rosés must age 2
years with a minimum 6 months in cask.

What are the aging regulations
for wines labeled Gran Reserva?Red wines must age for 5
years with a minimum 1.5 years in cask. Whites and rosés must age 4
years with a minimum 6 months in wood.

What is the largest demarcated
wine DO in Spain?La Mancha

What are the 3 DOCa of Spain?Rioja Priorat
Ribera Del Duero

DO that makes good quality reds
from Monastrell.Jumilla

What is Valdepenas and which
varietals are used?Valdepenas is a DO in
SpainCencibel (Temp) for redsAiren for whitesRoses and light reds from a mixture

Where is Montilla Moriles and
what kind of wine is produced?

Montilla Moriles is located in Spain
and it produces strong white wines made from PX and blended in
Solera system.
How are the sweeter style wines in Montilla Moriles produced?
Fortification
What usually happens to dry white wines in Montilla Moriles?Dry white wines are attacked by
Flor
What are the most highly rated wines of Navarra DO and which
varietals are used in it's production?
Roses made mostly from Grenache

USAWine laws
are more flexible than European standards in regards to regulations
on what viticultural and winemaking practice are allowed in each
wine region. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
(BATF) defines and approves applications for regions to become
American Viticultural Areas. This system was established in 1978
with the Augusta AVA in Missouri designated as the first
recognized AVA on June 20, 1980.[9] A sizable portion of
American wine laws relate to wine labelling practices and include
the stipulations thatVarietal Content
If the grape is listed on the label, the wine must be composed of at
least 75% of that grape varietal. If a vintage years is referenced,
95% has to be from that year.

Origon of the Grapes
1) if an AVA name appears on the label that at least 75% of grapes
used to produce the wine must come from that AVA.

2) In addition to AVAs, every American state and county can produce
wine and label it under their state/county wide appellation provided
at least 75% of the grapes come from that area.

3) The state of California and Texas have wine laws increasing the
requirement to 100% and 85% (75% all others), respectively, for use
of a state-wide appellation on the wine label.

The state of Oregon has increased
the restriction for grape variety to 90%, with exception of Cabernet
Sauvignon which under Oregon wine laws can have a minimum 75%.

USA is 4th in production
in the world and 33rd in consumption of wine

CA – 4 gallons of wine per person
per year
USA – 2 gallons of wine per person per year

Top 4 wine producing states by
volume1. California
2. Washingtnon
3. New York – North fork of Long Island – a lot of plantin of
vinifera grapes – Merlot
4. Oregon

Flash Cards for General USA
QuestionsName the top 4 wine producing
states in the USA.
1. California 2. Washington 3. New York 4. Oregon

What are the AVA laws
-if label says CA or County, must be 75%
- if label names an AVA area must be 85% grapes
-if label says estate AVA must be 100%
- if label says vintage must be 95%
- The varietal named only has to be 75%

Who is considered the Father of CA wine and which winery did he
found?
Count Agoston Harazsthy in 1857 founded Buena Vista Winery

What does AVA stand for and who admnisters it?
American Viticultural Area, the largest AVA is in CA, controlled by
the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) a division of
BATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) Priot to 2002 – BATF
Guidelines finalized in 1978 became mandatory in 1983. Defined as
“delimited grape growing area”.

OREGONoregonwine.org/Home/Small
industry founded in the 1970s
Climate similar to Burgundy
Reputation built on world-class Pinot Noir
French investment
16 AVAs in Orgon with 3 overlapping Washington and 1 overlapping
Idaho

Strict labeling regulations 90% for grape variety (except 75% fpr Cab)
100% pf grapes from stated AVAs100% of grapes come from source
owned by the winemaker.. Wine must also be made and reared on the
same
estate

What is the minimum percentage
that a wine must have in Oregon if it states a varietal? What is the
exception?90% except Cabernet
Sauvignon which is 75%

If a wine produced in Oregon
states a designated area, what percentage has to be from stated
area?100%

NEW YORKThe USAs
oldest wine industry
Northern climate and its affect on viticulture
History of labrusca grapes and hybrids
Dr. Konstantin Frank and the Geneva Viticultural Station – the
father of vinifera grapes in MY
The rise of Long Island wines
Why don’t we have MY wine in CA – strict wine laws; no direct
shipment of wineries
A distributor has to pick up in order to sell itand that may not
be economical

AVAs of New York.Finger Lakes
Cayuga Lake
Seneca Lake
Niagara Escarpment
Lake Erie
Hudson River Region
North Fork of Long Island
The Hamptons, Long Island
Long Island

State the 2 main categories of
beer.
Ale: Made with top fermenting yeast
Lager: Made with bottom fermenting yeast

Name 2 styles of beer within each of the 2 main beer categories.
Ale:
Pale Ale
Bitters
Porters
Stouts
Wheat

Lager:
Pilsner
Bock

State the steps of beer production.
Soak the barley in water until germination. Bake barley in kiln to
stop germination. Yeast is added to cause fermentation creating
alcohol and CO2. Hops is now added if bitter flavor is desired.

What are liqueurs?Liqueurs are sweetened
flavoured spirits produced by blending herbs, spices and other
flavorings with neutral spirit or by distillation of a liquid from
the fruit itself

Name and describe the 3 basic
types of RumGolden and spiced rum –
color from oak maturation and flavored with spices

Dark Rum – fermentation started with
Dunder &matured in wood for 5-7 years. Adjusted with caramel.

White or Silver Rum – distilled in
continuous still &matures 1 year in glass or stainless
steel

Name 4 citrus liqueurs besides
Grand MarnierCointreau

Curacao

Triple Sec

Van der Hume

Name 2 chocolate liqueursCreme de Cacao

Royal mint chocolate liqueur

Name 2 coffee liqueursKahlua

Tia Maria

Name 4 cream liqueursAmarula

Baileys Original Cream liqueur

Devonshire Royal Cream liqueur

Sheridans

Name a caraway flavored liqueurKummel

Name 2 french liqueurs made from
secret recipes that contain herbs, spices, etc, and are aged in woodBenedictine and
Chartreuse

Name 2 liqueurs flavored with
apricot and apricot kernalsAmaretto and Apricot
Brandy

Describe CalvadosEau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented apple juice

Describe FramboiseEau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented raspberries

Describe KirschEau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented cherries

Describe MirabelleEau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented mirabelles which are small yellow
plums

Describe Poire William
Eau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented pears

Describe Slivovitz Eau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented plums

Describe QuetschEau-de-vie made from the
distillation of fermented red plums

Describe Marc brandyBrandy made by distilling
the fermented liquor obtained from steeping the pips and skins left
after the grapes have been pressed for the production of wine

Describe GrappaBrandy that under EU law
can only be made in Italy and made by distilling the fermented
liquor obtained from steeping the pips and skins left after the
grapes have been pressed for the production of wine

What do the terms Invecchiata and
Stravecchia refer to?Both refer to oak aging
of Grappa

From what are Angostura bitters
made?Rum, gentian, and
vegetable spices

Describe the flavor of Amer PiconOrange flavored French
bitters

Describe the flavor of CampariItalian bitters flavored
with herbs and spices

Describe the flavor of Fernet
BrancaStrongly flavored bitters
from Italy and France

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Sweet White Wines?43-47 degrees F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Dry Sherry and Dry Madeira?43-47 degrees F
What is the ideal serving temperature for Champagne and Sparkling
Wines43-50 degrees F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Light White Wines and Rose?45-50 degrees
F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Heavy Whites and Light Reds?50-55 degrees F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Tawny Port and Sweet Sherries? 54-61 degrees F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Medium Bodied Reds?55 degrees F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Full Bodied and Aged Reds?59-64 degrees
F

What is the ideal serving
temperature for Sweet Madiera and Vintage Port? 64-68 degrees F

WINE MAKINGDefine VeraisonWord used by English
speakers for that intermediate stage of grape berry development
which marks the beginning of ripening, when the grapes change from
the hard, green state to their softened and colored form.

Chenin BlancChenin Blanc is not very
well known primarily because it has not created many successes
outside of its native region of the Loire in France. Known for its
wonderful fragrance and high acidity, Chenin Blanc is known to make
exceptionally long-lived wines, especially when vinified sweet.

When sweet, Chenin Blanc tends to
emphasize more fruit flavors, hinting at lemons, apples, and melons
with strong floral touches.

In South Africa the grape is widely
planted and referred to as Steen. The soil and climate in the US
does not favor Chenin Blanc, therefore many of the US examples of
Chenin are clumsy and sweet with no real distinctiveness. Aromas and flavors: Sour Cream
Almonds Nuts Toast Lemon Pear Apple Melon Marzipan Dried Flowers
Yogurt Apricot

ChardonnayOne of the reasons for
Chardonnay's popularity is the fact that the grape is relatively
neutral in varietal characteristics, relying more on the skill of
the winemaker to bring out more assertive flavors in the wine. In
its native Burgundy, winemakers tend to be less manipulative than
their counterparts in the US and Australia.

The winemakers in Burgundy know that
Chardonnay, when grown on the chalky soils of the Cote de Beaune,
with time will evolve the less flamboyant grape into an intensely
complex wine of richness and character. Winemakers in the US tend to
be less patient, so they try several techniques to produce the
desired complexity and richness now, without the wait. Typically
American.

Stylistically, Chardonnay made in a
less-manipulated way in cooler climates (called "old world” style)
tends to exhibit more apple, lemon and grapefruit flavors, with more
subtle complexity, such as flinty, nutty traces.

Chardonnay made in a
more-manipulated way from slightly warmer climates (called "new
world” style) tends to exhibit more tropical fruit flavors, like
banana, and pineapple, with less finesse and more potent flavors,
like butterscotch, praline and vanilla. Often, the severe flavor of
oak all but denudes any other quality in the wine in these overly
manipulated monsters. For me,

Chardonnay is at its greatest in an
"old world” style wine. Here the subtle mimicry of the grape takes
on the many essences of the soil and climate where it was grown,
creating a long-lived, beautifully evolving piece of liquid
artistry. Aromas and flavors:Stone
Green Apple Citrus Pear Melon Nuts Pineapple Oak Honey Vanilla
Peach Apricot Butter Smoke Caramel Butterscotch

GewurztraminerGewürztraminer derives
its name from the German word for "spice" (gewurz) and the name of
the Italian village of Termino, or Tramin, where the grape
originated. Spice is an excellent word for this grape with its
virtual "Far East spice cabinet" set of aromas. Gewürztraminer is
truly at its finest in France's Alsace region, where the heady
perfumed aroma is a dead give away that your drinking
Gewürztraminer.

In Alsace the grape produces wines
that range from bone-dry to sticky sweet, all usually low acid with
incredible extract. Aromas vary from nutmeg and ginger to rose water
and lychee nut. The palate is generally similar, except for an
ever-so-slight nut-skin bitterness that can tend towards oily
beeswax. I have yet to taste Gewürztraminer outside of Alsace that
even begins to compare. Most wines made in the US are, like their
Chenin Blanc cousins, clumsy and lacking any of the profound
complexity that is the grape's hallmark. Aromas and flavors:Nutmeg Rose
Ginger Lychee Nut Mace Cardamom Allspice Grapefruit

Pinot GrigioPinot Grigio (or Pinot
Gris as it is commonly known in France and the US) is known to make
refreshing thirst-quenching wines of no great distinction. Pinot
Grigio is also interesting for its seemingly dual personality.

Stylistically as Pinot Grigio, the
grape tends to make light, crisp high acid wines that are generally
bone-dry with a lot of lemony/citrus tartness. As Pinot Gris, the
grape tends to make more rounded, supple low acid wines that hint at
buttery/nutty flavors with lots of extract.

As Pinot Grigio the grape is
probably best known in the Northeast portion of Italy in
Trentino-Alto Adige and Friuli-Venezia-Giulia. As Pinot Gris the
grape shines in France's Alsace region. In the US, Oregon holds the
distinction of being the most planted region in the US for Pinot
Gris with a decent track record for quality interpretations.Aromas and flavors:Apple
Lemon Butter Pear Almonds Minerals Honey Orange Blossom

RieslingRiesling is indigenous to
Germany and seems to thrive in the harshness of the German climate.
The grape tends not to perform well in warmer climates. Riesling can
be made in many styles even within its native Germany. In all cases,
Riesling retains a high degree of acidity, which is often kept in
check by the presence of sweetness. Like Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling
is a reflection of the soil and climate where it is made.

The flavors found in Riesling can
range from flinty and lemony to wet stone and peach to minerals and
fennel. The wines can also range from completely dry to unctuously
sweet.

In the Alsace region of France, the
only region is France where it is legal to grow Riesling, the wines
tend towards more full-bodied, dry incarnations, emphasizing the
apple, peach and honeysuckle qualities.

In the US and Australia, the wines
tend to be lightly sweet, emphasizing more tropical qualities like
passion fruit, orange blossom and kiwi. Johannisberg Riesling is a
synonym for Riesling. Aromas and flavors:Apple
Peach Lime Pineapple Apricot Ginger Flint Jasmine Honey Kiwi Steel

Sauvignon BlancSauvignon Blanc is a
grape that is almost as well traveled as Chardonnay with a wide
variety of flavor characteristics that are solely dependent on the
soil and climate where it is grown.

In the more chalky soils of the
Loire, the grape exhibits a more flinty, grassy persona, while in
the gravelly soils of Entre-Deux-Mers (Bordeaux), the grape is more
herbaceous and vegetal

In California the grape shows
greater richness with tendencies towards honey and pear flavors. In
New Zealand, the grape shows more tropical and citrus notes. The use
of oak can also have a big impact on Sauvignon Blanc. In areas that
historically don’t employ oak aging (the Loire), the wines are
clean, crisp and refreshing.

In areas where oak aging is
prevalent (California), the wines take on a richer, nuttier quality.
The name Fume Blanc is synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc. Sauvignon
Blanc tends to be high in acid with a lively, aromatic nose. Aromas
and flavors usually associated with Sauvignon Blanc:
Melon
Pear Fig Hay Grass Musk Lemon Toast Stone Grapefruit Cat Pee Flint
Herbs Pineapple

ViognierBecause Viognier is known
as a "shy and unreliable” producer, not much is planted outside of
its native region of France's Rhone Valley, specifically the
appellations of Condrieu, Chateau Grillet and Cote Rotie. The
grape's scarcity is beginning to change, as more and more wine
makers are finding success with the grape in California.

Viognier is well known for its nose
and the often-heady aromas present. However, stylistically the grape
can be severely effected by winemaking techniques that hide or mask
the grape's natural beauty. This is true for winemaking styles on
both continents. When not heavily influenced by oak, the grape
yields a wine with intense fruit aromas and sinful fruit flavors
ranging from peach and apricot to passion fruit and mango.

Typically this style also doesn't
favor malolactic fermentation so there is generally no lactic
qualities. When made with a heavy oak influence the lush fruit is
typically masked by wood and vanilla notes and the wine takes on the
characteristics of a heavy, woody Chardonnay. Aromas and
flavors usually associated with Viognier:
Grass
Peach Honey Apricot Honeysuckle Lemon Grass Kiwi Mango Guava Passionfruit

RED WINES

Cabernet FrancCabernet Franc is native
to Bordeaux, where it is most prevalent in the Right Bank
appellations of Pomerol and St. Emilion and goes by the name
Bouchet. Cabernet Franc is also an important component to many of
the wines made in southwestern France in the appellations of
Bergerac and Madiran, where it is known as Bouchy. The grape is also
widely planted in the Loire region under the name Bretton.

Generally, Cabernet Franc exhibits
herbal flavors with earthy, organic hints like mushrooms, moss and
tobacco. In Bordeaux and California the grape tends to be used as a
blending grape to add structure to wines. It is acknowledged as one
of the three primary grapes used to make "classic" Bordeaux-style
claret. Aromas and flavors usually associated with Cabernet Franc:Mushrooms
Sweet Herbs Fall Leaves Moss Humus Tobacco Strawberry Damp Tree
Bark Cocoa Tea

Cabernet SauvignonCabernet Sauvignon is
considered by many to be the definitive red grape variety. Like
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon is well traveled, excelling in almost
every country where it is grown. Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful
grape, capable of producing massive levels of tannin and acidity.
The wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon tend to be deeply pigmented
and high in phenolics (I think of phenolics as the "things” that
make wine "chewy”). Cabernet Sauvignon achieved fame as one of three
grapes that go into the making of red Bordeaux wine (the other two
being Cabernet Franc and Merlot).

In France, the grape tends to
exhibit more mineral hints with a tendency towards greater
spiciness, including tobacco, cedar and cocoa hints.

In California and Australia, the
grape tends to exhibit more mint and vanilla hints with a tendency
towards greater fruitiness, including cherry, blackberry and
blueberry hints.

South Africa's most widely planted
red grape is Cabernet Sauvignon, but many that I've tasted have been
more on the "cool climate: side of the taste spectrum.Aromas and flavors usually associated with Cabernet Sauvignon:Black Cherry Cedar Vanilla
Chocolate Black Currant Herbs Blackberry Tobacco Mint Black Pepper
Blueberry Tea Cocoa

GrenacheGrenache is known
primarily as a blending grape and is used just so in the many
countries that claim "ownership" of the grape. In Spain the grape is
known as Garnacha and is an important component of the wines from
Rioja. In Sardinia the grape is known as Cannonau and makes
full-bodied fruity wines with prodigious levels of alcohol.

In France, Grenache is an essential
component to many of the wines made in the south of France,
especially Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cotes du Rhone, Tavel, Lirac,
Gigondas and the Cotes du Ventoux. Stylistically wines made from
Grenache are highly alcoholic with a rustic edge and sweet berry
flavors and aromas. Typically light in color, low in tannin and
acidity, Grenache, unless blended with grapes with better structure,
is not long-lived.

In the US a few winemakers vinify a
rose version of the grape, which when the wine is dry and refreshing
like its cousin in Tavel, makes a great summer quaff. However, when
made sweet like the rose version of Zinfandel, the wines are pretty
awful.Aromas and flavors usually associated with Grenache:Strawberry
Pepper Ethyl Acetate Cranberry Sour Cherry Alcohol Lily Orange Peel Rasperry Iris Cranberry Banana Chips Rose Strawberry Cherry
Violets

MerlotWhen most people think of
Merlot, they generally think of a softer, fleshier version of
Cabernet Sauvignon, perhaps without "six-pack abs." Oddly enough,
while most people inexorably link Cabernet Sauvignon with French
Bordeaux, in reality, Merlot is the most widely planted grape in
Bordeaux, responsible for most of the wines made from the
Entre-Deux-Mers, Pomerol, and St. Emilion areas.

Because Merlot tends to be softer
and fleshier than Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot is often relegated to
the role of "blending grape." In recent years, with a rise in
popularity in the US, Merlot has established its own following.
Merlot tends to fall into two categories: light-weight, fruity
"quaffers," and dense, full-bodied "long-agers." In the former case,
the wines tend to be easy drinking with light tannins and a soft,
supple structure. In the latter case, the wines are big, bold with
often-massive tannins and long-evolving complexity.

A lot of inexpensive California
Merlot falls into the "light-weight" category, with the more
expensive bottles inheriting the expected density and complexity of
higher-priced wines. In France, most Bordeaux AOC and Bordeaux
Superieur (from around Entre-Deux-Mers) at an often very reasonable
price-point falls into the light-bodied category.

NebbioloNebbiolo is native to
Piedmont in Italy and is known for making massive, powerful wines
that are remarkably long-lived, requiring considerable aging to
achieve maturity. The wines of Barolo, Barbaresco, Gattinara and
Ghemme are all Nebbiolo or Nebbiolo-based wines. In other regions of
Italy, the grape is known as Spanna and Chiavennasca.

Generally, Nebbiolo makes wines with
high acidity, firm tannins, intense coloring and high alcohol. The
nose is frequently subtle and delicate, especially when young. Wines
made from Nebbiolo need considerable bottle aging with the reward
for such patience being the unlocking of the often-delicate floral
scents and the layered complexity of fine Nebbiolo.
Aromas and flavors usually associated with Nebbiolo:Tar
Bitter Chocolate Truffles
Roses Cocoa Twigs Violets

Pinot NoirPinot Noir is an
often-misunderstood grape, primarily because it has really only
achieved true greatness in France's Burgundy and Champagne regions.

Outside of France it has had
moderate success in Oregon and some of the cooler areas of
California, such as Los Carneros and Santa Barbara.

At its best, Pinot Noir is aromatic
and complex with a smooth texture and long aftertaste. The wines are
moderately tannic at best, with moderate acidity making for less
aging potential than the massively structured Cabernet Sauvignon.
Given that Pinot Noir is a somewhat fickle grape means that there is
a high degree of variability between producers and vintages. When
picked unripe or grown in climates too warm for the grape, Pinot
Noir tastes cooked, madierized, almost like rotting vegetables.

Generally, though, Pinot Noir tends
to fall into two categories: Fruity and Organic. In the former case,
the wines are more fruit driven with hints of raspberries, cherries
and strawberries. These wines are more delicate and simpler with
subtle tannins. In the latter case, the wines are more organic in
nature with hints of mushrooms, earth, and smoke. The wines are
full-bodied, denser with more exotic spice traces and firmer
tannins.

Under the right conditions, Pinot
Noir can make some of the most beautiful wine, being one of the few
red wines that goes well with fish (Salmon is a particularly good
match).Aromas and flavors usually associated with Pinot Noir:Raspberries
Violets Cherries Strawberries Lilacs Clove Plum Truffles Earth
Smoke Gamy Leather Meaty

SangioveseSangiovese is the most
widely planted grape variety in Italy, having particular success in
the Chianti district of Tuscany. The grape derives its name from the
Latin sanguis jovis, meaning, "blood of Jupiter," the Roman
equivalent of the Greek god Zeus. Like the prodigious Zeus,
Sangiovese has many clones: Brunello, Prugnolo, and Morellino are
among the better known clones.

Stylistically wines made from
Sangiovese are evolving. In the past, Sangiovese was prone to making
wines that were lean and acidic, with a pronounced rustic feel.
Today, Sangiovese wines are becoming fuller, softer, more fragrant
and especially more fruit driven. The evolution is due in part to a
modernization of age-old winemaking techniques, as well as better
viticultural practices in the vineyard. Despite this evolution, the
character of Sangiovese is relatively unchanged, with the grape
still exhibiting a rustic and savory appeal with pronounced acidity
and moderate tannins.Aromas and flavors usually associated with Sangiovese:
Cherry
Thyme Wood Orange Peel Spice Clove Leather Licorice Char

ShirazSyrah, or Shiraz as the
grape is known "down under" in Australia, is known to make "deeply
exotic" and intensely spicy wines that are generally full-bodied and
long aging. The grape was thought to be from the town of Shiraz in
Ancient Persia, but genetic science has proven that the grape is
actually native to France, a cross between to indigenous French
grapes: Dureza and Mondeuse Blanche.

The grape enjoys its greatest
success in the Rhone Valley of France, as well as in Australia,
where James Busby first brought clippings in 1832. A growing amount
of Syrah is cropping-up in California, where it is especially
successful in the Central Coast AVA. Stylistically Syrah falls into
two categories: Fruit driven (typically "New World") and Spice
driven (typically "Old World").

New World or Fruit driven Syrah can
be like blackberry jam, intensely fruity with great density and
aromas of vanilla bean. Old World or Spice driven Syrah is like
fresh milled black pepper, lively with aromas of rosemary, anise and
lavender and full of musky, gamy qualities.

Generally, in both cases Syrah
makes wines that are heavily pigmented, highly tannic and high in
alcohol (almost always at 14% by volume). In the Northern Rhone
regions of Hermitage and Cote Rotie where the red wines are made
with 100% Syrah grapes, it is said that the longevity of those wines
(20+ years in a notable vintages) is due in part to the suffering
that the vines endure, planted on steeply sloped vineyards still
harvested by hand. Aromas and flavors usually associated with Syrah/Shiraz:Smoke
Mineral Game Mint Tar Leather Blackberry Pepper Raspberry Chocolate
Spice Herb Lavender Musk Anise Jam

ZinfandelIn years past Zinfandel
was often considered the workhorse of California, producing a wide
range of wine from rose jug wines to dense fortified "Port-like"
wines. Interestingly, while Zinfandel is distinctly Californian,
never having traveled outside the state in great quantity, it is not
native to the US. Genetically the grape has been shown to be
identical to the Italian Primativo grape from Apulia, although
Primativo is not native to Italy either.

BarberaBarbera is a widely
planted grape that is often used as the basis for large amounts of
bulk wine. In Italy and in California, Barbera has enjoyed its
greatest success. Wines made from Barbera tend to exhibit high
acidity, good coloration and moderate tannins. Stylistically, the
characteristics present is the wine are directly related to the
quality of the winemaking. When given serious attention both in the
vineyard and in the winery, Barbera can turn out incredibly perfumed
wines with smooth tannins and a long, complex aftertaste. When given
less attention, or treated poorly, Barbera becomes more nondescript,
highly acidic plonk.Aromas and flavors:Sour
Cherry Plum Vanilla Cinnamon

Gamay

Gamay is indigenous to the
Beaujolais region in France and like many grapes, is sharply
influenced by soil type and climate. For this reason, Gamay has
vastly different flavor profiles throughout the region. In southern
portions of the region, where vast quantities of Beaujolais and
Beaujolais-Villages are made, Gamay makes wines that are light,
fruit-driven with very low tannin. In the northern reaches of the
region, where the ten Beaujolais crus are located, Gamay makes wines
that are richer, more full-bodied, exhibiting almost Pinot Noir-like
flavors. Gamay is also the grape used to make Beaujolais-Villages
Nouveau, the perennial favorite of the Thanksgiving table. The
Nouveau wines employ a process referred to as Carbonic Maceration,
which is an enzymatic fermentation process that occurs without yeast
in the "whole berries" of the grape. The process takes approximately
three weeks from start to finish and produces wines that are
extremely light-bodied and intensely fruity, meant to be consumed
immediately. Over the years the media hype around the annual release
of Nouveau (generally on November 19th) has often eclipsed the
quality of the wine being touted. While generally never thought of
as "serious wine," Gamay can make the ideal summer red, designed to
encourage the celebration of friends.Aromas and flavors:Lily
Orange Peel Raspberry Iris Cranberry Banana Chips Rose Strawberry
Cherry Violets

WINE MENUFor
your Certification, Level II Test, you will be serving a table of
four Master Sommeliers…They will be looking for your guidance in
selecting cocktails before dinner, wine with, and after dinner
drinks. Put together a list of about 4 appertifs, five red wines,
five white wines and a couple of after dinner options. Also, know
your basic cocktails.

Refer to the PCI videos on Youtube about opening a Champange bottle,
and decanting a red wine. On the Champange one, note how the thumb
is ALWAYS over the cork and the cage, which they leave on.

Use the below list if
you like; after you assemble your list, copy and paste wines name
into google and find tasting notes; you need to understand why you
are recommending the wine based on what they are ordering. They may
try and trip you by all four having something slightly different and
ask for ONE bottle for all of them…Remember, a Pinot Noir CAN go
with fish…and a big chard CAN go with meat.